Opt-in and Win

Late 2017 I accepted the guidance of mentors and started a blog on my website. I resisted this advice for years because it seemed daunting to come up with ideas every week, and I thought that I didn't have that much of interest to say. Even though I take a break for a few months each year, I have kept my commitment and have never struggled to find a topic that sparked my passion for sharing with you. 
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In fact, the depth and breadth of content often lead me to write serial blogs, such as the ones I just finished. "Building Your Success Engine," which began before the COVID-19 shutdown, is a small business guide inspired by conversations with clients. As the Coronavirus response established temporary rules and guidelines that changed our daily lives, I posted a special edition blog on LinkedIn called "Creating Organizational Resilience," which shares best practices for business owners and leaders navigating a changing, uncertain landscape. You see, I am pragmatic at heart. Measured, thoughtful action gives me hope and inspiration. Thus, I am less likely to post quotes and memes, choosing instead to share the wisdom of my experience with those in the business community who are interested. 

This week is different. This week I am pausing in gratitude and appreciation. I am sharing my moments of personal rejuvenation from my Spring Break staycation last week.  

5) My life - My husband and girls are staying safe at home. None of us are essential workers required to put ourselves at risk each day. We have everything that we need, including the ability to communicate with our extended family and friends. We have enough money to pay our bills and put food on our table. I am blessed.
4) Zoom - I've been using Zoom since 2018 and have always appreciated their service. Now I've gone from one-on-one coaching sessions to large group presentations that allow me to give support to the business community that I serve. I appreciate that we can connect and enjoy our shared company without needing to create meet-up strategies that risk our efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
3) Leadership - I voted for Governor Andy Beshear and am enormously thankful for the leadership he provides to our state. It is clear that he has a cabinet of advisers that he trusts and that he listens to their guidance. His care and concern for saving the lives of Kentuckians are genuine, and he is unrelenting in his call to action for each of us to do our part. His leadership during this adversity inspires and calms me.
2) Early Spring - Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early Spring, and Mother Nature did not disappoint. The birds serenade my day. The trees and flowers splash color across the landscape. After three short months of gray, we are back in technicolor, and that makes each day a little brighter. And luckily our parks and trails remain open so that daily my walks with my dog, Ella, are filled with the beauty of this season.
1) Sunshine - Finally, I am so grateful to feel the warmth of the sun. I have moved my office to the deck outside my home. I soak up my vitamin D, relish the occasional breeze, and feel grateful to have nature as the backdrop for my day. It is the best office space I have the pleasure of enjoying.

Gratitude frames our thinking to focus on strengths rather than deficits. I invite you to take a moment to make your list and acknowledge the things for which you are grateful. ​